Establishing a mainland company in Dubai involves a legal process governed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other regulatory bodies. From selecting a business activity to obtaining necessary licenses, understanding the legal intricacies is crucial for a successful company formation in Dubai mainland.
Determine business activity and selecting an appropriate legal structure
The first step in mainland company formation is determining the nature of the business activity and selecting an appropriate legal structure. Common legal structures include Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, and Civil Company. Each structure has its own implications in terms of ownership, liability, and operational flexibility, so it’s essential to choose wisely based on business objectives and regulatory requirements.
Reserve a trade name
Before initiating the company formation process, it’s necessary to reserve a unique trade name for the proposed business. The trade name should comply with DED guidelines, avoiding any prohibited or misleading terms. Once the trade name is approved, it is valid for six months, during which the company formation process must be completed.
Prepare memorandum and articles of association
The memorandum and articles of association (MOA) outline the company’s objectives, share capital, management structure, and other pertinent details. These documents must be drafted in accordance with DED regulations and signed by all shareholders before a notary public. The MOA acts as the legal framework governing the operations and management of the company.
Obtain initial approvals
After drafting the MOA, the company must obtain initial approvals from various governmental authorities, including the DED, Dubai Municipality, and relevant industry regulators. These approvals ensure compliance with zoning regulations, health and safety standards, and other regulatory requirements specific to the business activity.
Lease office space and finalize legal requirements
As per DED regulations, mainland companies are required to lease physical office space within Dubai for conducting business operations. The lease agreement must be finalized and registered with the Ejari system, a mandatory requirement for obtaining the trade license. Additionally, the company must fulfill other legal requirements, such as obtaining approvals for signage, trade licenses, and any special permits applicable to the business activity.
Obtain trade license
The final step in the company formation process is obtaining the trade license from the DED. The trade license specifies the permitted business activities and is essential for conducting commercial operations legally within Dubai. Once the trade license is issued, the company can commence its operations and engage in business activities in the mainland market.